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How WhatsApp Took Over the Global Conversation

January 12, 2026

In 2009, Jan Koum launched a messaging app aimed at helping users identify the availability of their contacts before making calls. Initially, the app struggled to gain traction, with only a few thousand downloads and limited usage, as people preferred direct calling over checking statuses.

How WhatsApp Took Over the Global Conversation

Credit: BySam KnightJanuary 12, 2026

Key Highlights

Jan Koum developed an app in 2009 to show users the status of their contacts.
The app was initially named various iterations including Status App and iPhone Status.
Koum's app had between 5,000 to 10,000 downloads but saw little user engagement.
Users preferred calling directly over checking the app for contact statuses.

Magazine / Annals of Technology

Sources

How WhatsApp Took Over the Global Conversation

This quick summary is automatically generated using AI based on reports from multiple news sources. The content has not been reviewed or verified by humans. For complete details, accuracy, and context, please refer to the original published articles.

How WhatsApp Took Over the Global Conversation

Key Highlights

Sources

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